A Year of Shared Experiences: My Journey as a Live Wildly Adventurist
Words and photos by George McKenzie Jr, Live Wildly Adventurist
Over the past year, my journey as a Live Wildly Adventurist has been filled with moments far beyond personal discovery. This role has allowed me to immerse myself deeply in wild Florida, not just as an explorer but as a storyteller dedicated to bringing the experiences of this incredible environment to life for others.
Understanding the Role of a Live Wildly Adventurist
Being a Live Wildly Adventurist is much more than embarking on thrilling escapades. It’s about experiencing and sharing the rich tapestry of life within Florida’s natural landscapes. My job is to observe, document, and communicate the essence of these wild spaces, focusing on their conservation and the stories they hold. The Florida Wildlife Corridor, a vast and interconnected network of natural landscapes, has been the backdrop for most of my adventures, offering an endless array of stories waiting to be told.
At its core, this role is about connecting people to nature, history, and each other. I aim to inspire others to appreciate and protect Florida’s natural treasures through photography, writing, and social media. The real magic of being an Adventurist is sharing these experiences as isolated moments of adventure and as part of a larger narrative that underscores the importance of conservation and community.
Paddling Through Shared Landscapes: Fisheating Creek
One of the most profound experiences was paddling through Fisheating Creek. This journey, with its winding waters and abundant wildlife, is a microcosm of the more significant corridor. Every paddle stroke brought me closer to understanding the delicate balance of life that thrives there, a unique experience that I am excited to share with you.
This adventure was less about the physical challenge and more about witnessing the intricate web of life that these natural spaces support. I shared this experience with the countless species that call the corridor home, from the alligators gliding silently beneath the water’s surface to the chorus of birds that filled the air. The real story here was not just about my journey but about the ongoing story of nature itself—a narrative that continues with or without human presence but one that we are privileged to witness and protect.
Documenting a Rare Moment: The Florida Panther
One of the most rewarding moments in my role came when I made my first Florida panther photo on a camera trap. The moment I saw the image of the panther, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. It wasn’t just a personal achievement but a victory for everyone involved in the conservation efforts. This experience empowered me to keep going, providing much-needed inspiration and energy.
The panther’s appearance was a testament to the ecosystem’s health and a powerful symbol of the resilience and beauty of Florida’s wildlife. The support from my followers, peers, and the broader community was overwhelming. Their encouragement and love for the journey underscored the collective passion for preserving these incredible creatures and their habitats. This shared victory reinforced my belief in the importance of my work and the impact that storytelling can have on conservation.
The Night Sky as a Shared Canvas: Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Another unforgettable experience was photographing the Milky Way at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park. This park, renowned for its dark skies, provided the perfect setting for a night spent under the stars. But this wasn’t just a solitary endeavor. It was a shared experience with the cosmos, a reminder of our small yet significant place in the universe.
More: Heat, Stars, and Unforgettable Moments at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Joined by my friend and fellow photographer, Anthony Sleiman, we spent the night capturing the beauty of the Milky Way. The stars above, visible in such breathtaking clarity, connected us to the park and everyone who has ever gazed up at the night sky. The photographs we took were not just images but stories—stories of a night spent under the stars, of the patience required to capture the perfect shot, and of the shared wonder that comes from witnessing such natural beauty.
Telling the Stories of the Past: Fort Mose Historic State Park
As an Adventurist, my role also involves uncovering and sharing the rich history embedded in Florida’s landscapes. Fort Mose Historic State Park, the first free African settlement in what is now the United States, is a place where history and nature intersect in powerful ways. My visit to this historic site was a journey back in time but also a connection to the ongoing story of resilience and the fight for freedom.
The reenactments of the Battle of Fort Mose, the stories of the people who lived there, and the physical landscape of the fort itself all came together to create a narrative that is as relevant today as it was centuries ago. My role was to capture and share these stories, not just as historical facts but as living, breathing experiences that continue to resonate. This adventure reminded me that the past is never truly behind us—it is something we carry with us, and it’s our responsibility to ensure these stories endure.
Promoting Inclusivity: A Journey of Shared Access
One of the most meaningful aspects of my job has been advocating for inclusivity in nature. During Disability Pride Month, I embarked on a journey with the Florida State Parks Foundation to explore how natural spaces are becoming more accessible. This journey was about more than just highlighting these efforts; it was about sharing the stories of those who benefit from them.
More: Solo & Soulful: A Journey of Accessibility and Adventure for Disability Pride Month
I met individuals who had overcome significant challenges to enjoy Florida’s wild spaces, and their stories were a powerful reminder of the importance of accessibility. Whether joining a group on an accessible glass-bottom boat tour at Silver Springs State Park or learning from Wayne Duke, a passionate photographer who uses a wheelchair, these experiences highlighted the positive impact of inclusive access to nature. My role was to share these stories, to document how access to nature can change lives, and to inspire others to continue pushing for greater inclusivity in all our natural spaces.
Reflecting on a Year of Shared Experiences
Looking back on my year with Live Wildly, I realize that the value of my role as an adventurist lies in the shared experiences. Each adventure has been an opportunity not just to explore but to connect—with nature, with history, and with others. The Florida Wildlife Corridor has been the constant thread through these experiences, a reminder that we are all part of a larger ecosystem that thrives on connection and community.
As I continue my journey as a Live Wildly Adventurist, I am more committed than ever to sharing these stories. The past year has been filled with moments of awe, reflection, and learning, and I am excited to see where the next adventures will take me. Whether exploring new landscapes, uncovering hidden histories, or championing inclusivity, I know that my work will continue to be more than just adventure—it will be about sharing the experiences that make us all part of the wild, wonderful world around us.
Ultimately, it’s not just about where we go or what we do but about how we share those experiences with others. And that, more than anything, is the true essence of being a Live Wildly Adventurist.
